Finnish President Says Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal Closer Than Ever
Finnish President Alexander Stubb stated that negotiators are closer than at any other point during the war to achieving a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. He credited U.S. diplomacy and sanctions pressure on Russian oil companies as key factors that have helped move the talks into their final and most difficult stage.
According to Stubb, the recent talks in Berlin demonstrated unity among Europe, Ukraine, and the United States in pursuing a just peace and ensuring security guarantees for Ukraine. He estimated that about 5% of issues remain unresolved, representing the most challenging remaining obstacles.
Stubb highlighted the efforts of Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, envoys of former President Trump, who have spent weeks working to narrow differences as negotiations intensified. He also noted his own recent discussions with Trump and close collaboration with Kushner and Witkoff during this process.
He emphasized the effectiveness of sanctions on Russian oil giants Lukoil and Rosneft, advocating that sanctions should be intensified if Russia rejects a peace framework. Stubb contrasted the hardline public rhetoric from Russian President Vladimir Putin with possible flexibility seen in private talks, describing this as a common feature of diplomacy. Nevertheless, he warned that Russia’s goal remains to undermine Ukraine’s existence.
Furthermore, Stubb claimed that Russia’s economy is weak, characterized by zero growth, depleted reserves, high interest rates, and high inflation.
